The results are sobering. Europe is faced with significant corruption risks, particularly at the intersection of business and politics. The current system allows for undue influence and wrongful conduct, while avoiding public scrutiny.

The ongoing financial crisis has brought into stark relief the price of complacency about graft in Europe. What is required is concerted action backed by firm political commitment. In building on promising practices and providing citizens with oversight and voice, the mistakes of the past can be avoided and ultimately a cleaner Europe can emerge.